TSA Agents Are Working Without Pay At US Airports

A shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security has gone into effect. That includes the Transportation Security Administration, whose officers are responsible for screening passengers and bags at airports. Experts say mass flight cancellations like those seen during the 2025 shutdown are less likely this time because air traffic controllers are still getting paid. But TSA officers are required to stay on the job without pay during the shutdown that started Saturday. Experts warn of long security lines if the shutdown drags on and more officers take unscheduled absences. Travel and airline industry groups warn the shutdown threatens to disrupt air travel as the busy spring break travel period approaches.